Commercial caulking and joint sealants are critical for maintaining a building’s exterior, protecting against water infiltration, air leaks, and structural damage while ensuring long-term durability. Whether your property is a high-rise office building, apartment complex, or historic landmark, proper sealant maintenance preserves its value, functionality, and energy efficiency.
Why Proper Sealant Replacement Matters
Sealant replacement isn’t just routine maintenance—it’s a cornerstone of protecting your building from damage caused by environmental exposure. Failing sealants can lead to moisture infiltration, energy loss, and even structural deterioration. When addressed proactively, sealant replacement safeguards your building’s integrity and lifespan.
4 Types of Sealant Failures to Watch For
- Adhesive Failure: Occurs when the sealant pulls cleanly away from the surface due to improper installation, unclean surfaces, or the wrong primer.
- Cohesive Failure: Cracks or tears within the sealant, caused by excessive joint movement or insufficient material depth.
- Substrate Failure: The underlying material (brick, stone, or concrete) fails beneath the sealant bond, often due to water damage or weakened masonry.
- Loss of Sealant Properties: Over time, exposure to UV rays and weather causes sealants to harden, lose elasticity, and degrade, signaling it’s time for replacement.
How to Identify Sealant Issues During Inspections
Inspecting your building’s exterior regularly can help catch small issues before they escalate. Look for:
- Cracked or peeling sealant, or gaps in joints.
- Surface cracks, broken bricks, or structural movement.
- Rust streaks or water stains around joints.
- White patches (efflorescent salts) that indicate water infiltration.
- Loose or deteriorating mortar near sealed areas.
Addressing these issues early prevents larger, more expensive repairs and ensures your building remains watertight.
The Sealant Replacement Process
Effective sealant repair and replacement for commercial properties involves a meticulous process to ensure durability and protection:
- Remove Old Sealant: Degraded materials are carefully removed, and joint surfaces are cleaned.
- Prepare the Surface: Joints are primed with appropriate materials to ensure a strong bond.
- Apply the New Sealant: High-quality sealants are applied with precision, ensuring a clean and smooth finish.
- Final Inspection: Newly sealed joints are tested for durability and watertightness.
This step-by-step process ensures that your building remains secure and functional for years to come.
Protect Your Building with Confidence
Small issues with caulking and joint sealants can quickly escalate into costly repairs. Proactive maintenance is key to keeping your building secure, efficient, and long-lasting.
Since 1984, Building Restoration Corporation (BRC) has been the Midwest’s trusted leader in exterior building restoration. Specializing in commercial caulking, joint sealants, and façade maintenance for large-scale and historic properties, we bring decades of experience and a reputation for excellence that sets us apart:
- Expertise in Complex Projects: From iconic landmarks to modern high-rises, BRC provides tailored solutions for every property.
- Award-Winning Craftsmanship: Known for precision and quality, we use the best materials and proven techniques.
- Comprehensive Services: We handle the entire process, from inspections to full-scale restoration, ensuring seamless results.
- Safety First: With rigorous safety standards, we protect your property, employees, and our team at every step.
Partnering with BRC means choosing a team dedicated to preserving your property’s integrity and ensuring it stands the test of time. Don’t wait until small issues escalate—schedule an inspection with us today to ensure your property remains secure, efficient, and long-lasting.